Second Phase of Building Improvements to Begin at El Paso Museum of Art – FAQs

1. When is the museum closing? The El Paso Museum of Art (EPMA) will be temporarily closed to the public from Wednesday, October 1, 2025, through February 2026.

2. Why is the museum closing again? EPMA is temporarily closing to complete Phase II of major HVAC upgrades. Phase I, which was completed in January 2025, required closures of some galleries while the overall building remained open. Phase II is more invasive; it replaces the remaining components of the nearly 30-year-old climate control system, including demolition to remove rooftop and basement air handlers. This is part of a $3.5 million investment by the City of El Paso to ensure the museum continues to meet the highest industry standards for collection care.

3. Why is this project being completed in phases? These phased closure periods have allowed the museum to continue offering quality exhibitions and public programs throughout FY24 and FY25, avoiding a full year-long shutdown.

4. Why is the closure period so long? This timeline allows the work to be completed efficiently while protecting our staff, visitors, and collection.

5. Who is managing this project? The project is being managed jointly by the City of El Paso’s Capital Improvement Department (CID) and the Museums and Cultural Affairs Department (MCAD). Together, these Departments will work to ensure the El Paso Museum of Art continues to meet the highest industry standards for collection care.

6. What is the importance of the HVAC system upgrade? The El Paso Museum of Art is a fully accredited institution with the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). A properly functioning HVAC system is essential for maintaining the stable microclimate required to preserve more than 7,000 works of art and archival materials. Consistent temperature and humidity control are critical to upholding best practices in museum collection care. In other words, this upgrade is extremely important for the works of art in our care and will ensure they stay safe from extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations for years to come.

7. What will happen to the collection during the closure? The safety of EPMA’s collection is critically important to us. The collection will remain in secure, climate-controlled storage throughout the construction period. Environmental conditions will be closely tracked, and all collections care practices will follow American Alliance of Museums (AAM) guidelines.

8. Is there a way to view the collection virtually? Yes; many objects from the collection have been digitized and are available to view online at: https://elpasoartmuseum.pastperfectonline.com

9. Will the exterior grounds or walkways be accessible? Yes. Walkways around the museum, including under Star Ceiling (El Paso) by Leo Villareal, will remain fully accessible during the closure. Look for special activations during Chalk the Block and Día de los Muertos at Judy Robison Terrace.

10. Will EPMA still offer programs while closed? Yes; EPMA will continue delivering on our mission through off-site programs in partnership with City of El Paso Libraries, Senior Centers, Parks and Recreation facilities, and other community organizations. Follow us on social media for the latest list of programs and events.

11. Who can I contact for off-site program details? Please email EPMA-Info@elpasotexas.gov or call (915) 212-0300. We’re happy to help and provide more information.

12. I’m a Member—what does this mean for me? By renewing or maintaining your membership, you help sustain our programming, outreach, and stewardship of the collection during this transitional period. EPMA Members will receive extended benefits, exclusive invitations, and behind-the-scenes updates via the EPMA Member Newsletter. We are so grateful for your support.

13. How can I support the museum during the closure? Support us by following EPMA on social media, attending one of our events off-site, becoming a Member, or making a donation. Your support is essential to continuing our mission. To donate, visit epma.art/support or email EPMADevelopment@elpasotexas.gov.

14. Are you canceling any exhibitions? No. EPMA’s exhibition schedule has been adjusted to accommodate the closure and will honor all existing commitments. The latest updates on exhibition schedules will be available on our website.

15. Can I still rent spaces for private events? Please contact EPMARentals@elpasotexas.gov for more information.

16. When will the Museum reopen? We are looking forward to reopening our building in Spring of 2026. Closer to the reopening date, we’ll share information on some exciting exhibitions and programs we have planned. Please stay tuned to our social media channels for the latest updates!

17. What else is there to do Downtown while the Museum of Art is closed? We welcome you to visit some of the other exceptional cultural institutions located Downtown, including our free sister sites the El Paso Museum of History and Mexican American Cultural Center. You can also find our team in the Downtown Arts District during signature City of El Paso festivals. Please visit www.EPMCAD.org for more information.

18. Is this the last closure for the Museum? By closing the building, we hope to complete all remaining upgrades at this time. However, it is possible that construction can reveal further needs. Regardless, we intend to continue meeting our mission by providing high-quality arts programming for our community.